The European Commission has signed a concession contract with the SpaceRISE consortium to develop, deploy, and operate the IRIS² (Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity, and Security by Satellite) constellation of satellites. It is planned to launch 290 satellites with a total project cost of €10.6 billion, which should allow the European Union to create a secure communications system in Europe and achieve strategic autonomy. The new system will compete with Elon Musk's Starlink, which is currently the leader in satellite communications services.
IRIS² is the European Union's third flagship space program designed to address long-term challenges in the areas of safety, security and resilience. The system aims to provide advanced communications services, bridging gaps in access to communications in remote regions and strengthening Europe's technological leadership.
The IRIS² constellation will operate in Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) and Low Earth Orbit (LEO), utilizing their unique advantages to provide
- Secure communication for EU member states and government agencies;
- High-speed broadband Internet access for businesses and citizens, especially in remote regions.
The SpaceRISE consortium, responsible for the implementation of IRIS², brings together three of Europe's leading satellite network operators — SES SA, Eutelsat SA and Hispasat S.A. — together with a wide network of subcontractors from the European satellite communications ecosystem. Key partners include: Thales Alenia Space, OHB, Airbus Defense and Space, Telespazio, Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Hisdesat, and Thales SIX.
The European Commission's 12-year concession contract creates a new public-private partnership, combining public and private investment to finance the project. In it, the European Union acts as the main customer for IRIS² services and, together with the European Space Agency (ESA) and private investment from the SpaceRISE consortium, provides funding for the project. Financial stability is achieved through initial commitments under the current EU multi-annual financial program, and further funding depends on the approval of extension programs by the European Parliament and Council.
The IRIS² system plans to launch operational services by 2030, serving both government and commercial users.